Mardi Himal

Mardi Himal is a more recent addition to Nepal's trekking map, offering a rare head-on view of Machapuchare (6,993 m), the famous "fish tail" that nobody is allowed to climb. This 10-day loop combines the climb to Mardi Himal with the classic sunrise at Poon Hill and the hot springs of Jhinu Danda.

From Pokhara the trail climbs the stone staircases of Ulleri to Ghorepani and then Poon Hill, before dropping back down to Jhinu Danda. The route then crosses over to the Mardi Himal side via Forest Camp up to High Camp (3,500 m), from where an early-morning climb leads to the viewpoint at 4,500 m, before returning through the Gurung village of Lwang.

What makes it unique

This loop combines three experiences in a single trek rather than forcing a choice between them: the classic sunrise at Poon Hill, the hot springs of Jhinu Danda beside the Modi Khola, and the climb to Mardi Himal with its head-on view of Machapuchare. The return through the Gurung village of Lwang, known for its organic tea gardens and community homestays, adds a cultural dimension you won't find on the direct version of the trek.

Route at a glance

Kathmandu → Pokhara → Ulleri → Ghorepani (Poon Hill) → Tadapani → Jhinu Danda (hot springs) → Forest Camp → Mardi High Camp → Mardi Himal viewpoint → Siding → Lwang → Pokhara

Good to know

• Duration: 10 days (8 days of walking)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• High point: Mardi Himal viewpoint, approx. 4,500 m, on a morning excursion above High Camp